[Alexandria Radio Club Reflector] ILLW

[Stefano Fonda]

I move from discord
Apparently, based on comments received we can do It last minute since there
Is no reason to contact FCC for the call variation but I think last year
was done. Anyway given expected temperature or weather I am doubtful about
partecipation.

QUOTE
Good evening,
I am considering to set up and operate a temporary amateur radio station at
Jones Point Lighthouse during the annual International Lighthouse Lightship
Weekend (ILLW). The objective is to highlight local maritime history,
promote amateur radio within the community, and log contacts with fellow
operators globally across multiple HF bands and modes.
As far as I remember the club License Trustee should submit a request to
the FCC (via the VEC/Special Event Station portal or official application
process) to obtain authorization for the special callsign variant W4HFH/LH
specifically for this event window.
Given the call sign assigned all operators will identify using W4HFH/LH in
compliance with FCC Part 97 rules regarding special event prefix/suffix
identifiers.
Due to extreme summer heat, high humidity, and heavy insect activity at
Jones Point Park along the Potomac, a full 48-hour continuous operation is
not feasible or safe for operators. For this reason I would consider a
modified schedule limiting the operations in the park.The regular timeframe
for this year eventi is as follows:
00.01 UTC 15th August 2026 to 24.00 UTC 16th August 2026
The target operating hours could be on Saturday between 08:00 EDT and noon,
weatherwise.
If there are participants willing to support the effort please let me know:
in that case I would ask the President if I can act as band captain for the
purpose of creating a roster of operators deconflicting bands, modes (CW,
voice, FT8) and hours of operation.
If we receive enough sign-ups—to be sent here or via email by next week—and
have the necessary equipment available, we’ll participate as a club;
otherwise, I think I’ll give it a go on my own for a few hours using my own
callsign. I am limited. Not only as a person, but in terms of hardware.
You can find all the details here: https://illw.net/
Last year, there were very few of us and we received a few very welcomed
visits. Skip operated using digital modes, while Sean, Gary and I did some
voice work. Let’s just say the location doesn’t help and the weather is not
encouraging. It is just to mark the “territory” on the air.
THANKS FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.
72, Stex – K4IEW / IV3EWO
UNQUOTE

Happy Friday